Processes of participatory democracy tend to vary, depending on the political, social and cultural contexts from which they emerge. Nevertheless, and given that not all members of any group of citizens take part, the reasons for some of these absences ought to be understood and, at the same time, we must also ask ourselves what the best way is to ensure maximum involvement on the part of citizens.
All of these questions must be understood within the framework of the OIDP and have, therefore, been raised for the purpose of taking a step forward in terms of our reflection on the progress, improvement and extension of processes of participatory democracy. At this 7th edition we would like to focus this reflection from an innovative perspective and to centre the debate on elements that have not been considered up to now, such as the causes, consequences and challenges that this new situation brings to our attention. We will find the answers on the basis of three working axes: social, territorial and methodological.
We will be counting on the presence of experts who will bring their own experiences and knowledge to the plenary sessions, conceived as moments for the exchange of local experiences and theoretical reflections, in which the debate between the different participants will be of great interest. At the same time we would also like to stress the participatory character of the group work sessions.
Complementarily, the Conference will also provide other spaces for reflection on local government and the participation of the citizens therein, such as the round table organised by the OIDP and the Suburban Local Authorities Forum (FALP) on “Metropolises and Participatory Democracy”. This will take place on the afternoon of the 27th, following the simultaneous group work sessions and will be concerned with the role of participatory democracy in the construction of metropolitan decision making. Finally, we will also learn to which experience the Jury has awarded the distinction for “Best Practices in Citizens’ Participation”.
WE COUNT ON YOUR PARTICIPATION!